The Art of Moving: A Guide to Surviving and Thriving Through Relocation
Moving can be one of the most stressful experiences in life. But with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that have helped me navigate multiple moves successfully. Here are my top strategies for making the process as smooth as possible.
The Searching Stage (For My Fellow Renters)
Don’t Fall for Catfishing Photos
Just like dating apps, real estate photos can be misleading. They often use Photoshop to brighten spaces, add virtual furniture, or use wide-angle lenses to make small areas look bigger. Always visit the property in person before committing. Bringing a friend along for a second opinion is also a great idea. They can spot red flags you might miss.Follow Your Nose
Trust your instincts. If you see cracks starting from the floor or smell mustiness, it could be a sign of rising damp. I once found black mold on a carpet after opening a cupboard, and it was a disaster. Don’t ignore these signs.Treat Your Cover Letter Like LinkedIn
When applying for a rental, your cover letter matters. Include a family photo and treat it like a job application. Highlight how you’ll care for the property and stand out from other applicants.Protect Your “Bond Record” at All Costs
I once had to pay $1,700 for a crack in a glass door, even though I didn’t cause it. It’s better to pay for repairs yourself than risk damaging your bond record. A clean record makes future rentals easier.
The Admin Tsunami
Overlap silver linings: lazy packing, and unpacking as you go WINNING. Image: Supplied.
Lock in the Logistics Immediately
Once you secure a new place, book the cleaner, gardener, and removalists as soon as possible. Also, sort out mail redirection and utility providers. Trying to remember login details during a move is a nightmare.The “Overlap” Strategy
If budget allows, give yourself crossover days. Paying double rent may feel painful, but it saves money on moving costs and reduces stress. For short-distance moves, I take everything myself except big items, which I hire a van for. This way, I can unpack as I go.Adopt the “Heiress” Mindset
Treat moving like a luxury experience. Hire professionals for tasks like vacate cleans. It’s worth the investment if it saves your mental health. Ask the real estate agent for their recommended cleaner to ensure quality work.
Making It a Home (And Leaving It Pristine)
I love Spakfilla and stain pens. That’s all. Image: Supplied
Negotiate the “Gallery” Wall
Don’t let your art gather dust. Ask if you can sign a side-agreement to return walls to their original state if you hang pictures. It’s always worth asking.Spakfilla is Your New Best Friend
Use Spakfilla to repair holes left by 3M hooks. It’s an affordable and satisfying solution. Let it dry, then sand it back for a seamless finish.The 50-Cent Coin Trick
Avoid guessing paint colours. Use a Stanley knife to remove a 50-cent-sized sample and take it to the hardware store for a match. This ensures accuracy and saves time.The Walnut Secret
For minor scratches on wooden floors, rub a crushed walnut on the area. The natural oils help hide the marks.The “Stain Pen” for Major Crimes
For deeper scratches, use a Stain Pen. It uses a solvent-based dye that blends into the wood, making the scratch less visible.
The Packing & D-Day
The final countdown… Image: Supplied.
The 12-Month Cull
Start packing two weeks early. If you haven’t used something in 12 months, donate or throw it away. This helps reduce stress and keeps your space organized.Measure Twice, Cry Zero Times
Measure big items and the gaps in your new home. Don’t forget small doorways. A fridge that doesn’t fit can be a disaster.Use “Chatty” as Your EA
ChatGPT can create checklists and solve specific problems. I’ve used it to find the right bin for a tricky space or unlock a cooktop.Bad Parking Is a Good Strategy
Park your car badly across a large space the night before. This makes it easier for the removalist truck to park close to your door.Stick-On Efficiency
Label every item with its destination. This helps the removalists pack efficiently and avoids confusion later.
Final Tips
With a little help from my friends. Image: Supplied.
One final tip: “Let them.”
As a single mum without family nearby, I couldn’t have done this move alone. If someone offers help, say yes and assign them a task. Reward them with food and drinks. Moving is stressful, but with support, it becomes manageable. Embrace the chaos, find the fun in the trauma, and enjoy the fresh start.
